LOOK towards the sailing boats on the horizon and you could be forgiven for imagining you were on the continent after all. Blazing sun, long sandy beaches, kayakers and water SUP-boarders laughing in the breeze. Yes, believe me, this is Dunbar East Beach on a Sunday morning full of happy families relaxing and enjoying the seaside.

Over the last few years, with thanks to the vision of the Dunbar Shore and Harbour Neighbourhood Group, we have watched the steady progress of the East Beach project. Engineers have positioned two groynes at low tide, giant’s arms embracing the beach. Giant boulders have been manoeuvred and positioned along the sea wall to create a substantial barrier.

We watched in dismay as work stopped with Covid restrictions, banks of rotting kelp piling up, aromas reminiscent of a bad day at the landfill seeping into our nostrils. But, just as hope sprang from the Covid vaccination programme, at the start of spring the golden sands that appeared to be drifting in and out, tantalisingly suspended in the waves, miraculously began to settle on the beach. Continued attention and clearing of the unwelcome kelp, we and many others are extremely grateful to be able to enjoy the regenerated beach to the full. Scotland’s Beach Award rightfully praising the Dunbar community for ‘keeping Scotland beautiful’ is a fitting testament to the success of the works.

And to experience fully this new ‘it’ vibe in Dunbar, we have been constant visitors to the well-stocked Bowe Sports & Leisurewear and are fully kitted with swimming costumes, wetsuits and surfboards. As we all squeezed and squashed ourselves into our new outfits unashamedly, we all excitedly took to the waves! Who needs the Costa del Sol? It’s all on our doorstep.

Just one word of caution: be prepared for some sensitive sartorial comments from friends and family. Brace yourself to be as thick-skinned as your new wetsuit!